Chapter Sample Questions of Three Essays on the Theory of Sexuality - Study Guide by Sigmund Freud

Sample Questions

1) Was Freud a Feminist?

The fundamental problem here, is the modern day definition of a feminist, and its suitability to Freud, a 19th/20th century psychoanalyst. Define a feminist. Then look at Freud's theories on sex differences and how they relate to this definition. Consider the fact that prior to being a theorist, Freud was a psychoanalyst in a male-dominated culture, so his work with female patients must be investigated from this socio-historical perspective.

What was Freud's history of scholarship with regard to his relationship with women? Look also at the cases in Freud's Studies in Hysteria and Dora and the case of the homosexual woman. In conclusion it seems that despite some obvious errors, Freud often supported his female patients, despite the struggle with cultural agendas that kept them in a subordinate position. Evidence from his case studies does indeed assert that he was a feminist, as he appears to have striven for women's freedom and their right to be heard. Thus in terms of his comportment towards his patients, he furthered the cause of feminism in many ways.

2) Discuss Freud's views of homosexuality.

What was Freud's definition of homosexuality? Is it exclusive of other sexual instincts, or can it exist with others? Does Freud see it as hereditary, or a result of environmental influences and life events? What is Freud's view of homosexuality compared to other sexualities, and their aberrations? Does he see it as an illness? If not, how does he see it and what are this reasons?

Before finishing look at a few other views on homosexuality, both from the time the Freud was writing and from today's perspective. In conclusion, summarise Freud's views and look at possible implications that these may have on today's views, and further questions that they provoke.

3) Discuss the role of society, with reference to Freud, in determining the sexual inclination of an individual.

The fundamental problem, is that of genes versus environment in the determination of an individual's character. On a wide perspective we can look at this in terms of all aspects of personality traits, however here focus on the one in mind - namely sexual inclination.

Look at the various types of sexual inclination that Freud describes. What are they? To what are these differences attributable? Heredity or environment? What evidence does Freud use in his answers to the above questions? How valid is his evidence?

How do Freud's views and evidence relate to current opinions and data sources, as well as those from the time in which he was writing? In conclusion, summarize the problems and benefits of the type of evidence Freud uses, and developments since then in determining the genes/environment contributions to personality traits. Compare the current perspective and conclusion, with Freud's and look for areas for future research to throw more light on this problem.